Basher Science: Technology sampler

GLOSSARY Nucleus The central part of an atom, made up of subatomic particles called protons and neutrons.

Oxidant Essential to combustion (burning) reactions, an oxidant combines with fuel to produce heat and light energy.

Particle One of the minute parts of matter that make up an atom. All atoms are made of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Photon A particle of light radiation or electromagnetic radiation. A photon has no mass and no charge.

Photovoltaic The production of electricity by light.

Quark The smallest kind of subatomic particle.

Radioactive Describes an unstable substance whose atomic nuclei break down and release nuclear radiation.

Semiconductor A material used in electronics that can conduct electricity under some conditions but not others.

This means that it can be used to control electrical current.

Silicon A semiconducting element and the base material for microchips.

Subatomic particle Any part of matter that is smaller than an atom.

Transmission A device in a car that transmits power from an engine to the wheels.

Ultraviolet Frequencies of electromagnetic radiation above that of visible light.

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